We are deeply disturbed from the escalation of the events and tensions in Ukraine. As an international organization for advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities worldwide as its mission, our thoughts are with the Ukrainian disabled community, and their families.
Rehabilitation International (RI) is deeply concerned for the safety, health, and well-being of the 2.7 million registered persons with disabilities in Ukraine, who are the most vulnerable group, that suffers the most in times of unrest.
Rehabilitation International (RI) calls for all parties to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in Ukraine, by respecting:
- their obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in particular Article 11 on situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies.
- the UN Security Council Resolution 2475 (2019) on Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Conflict.
- International Humanitarian Law and the Humanitarian Principles.
Advocating the rights and inclusion to ensure the health and well-being for persons with disabilities lies at the core of the Rehabilitation International (RI) mandate and commitments in all situations. May peace and love prevail the world.
